For senior Sofia Holovatska, running began as a hobby and a way to spend time with her older sister. However over the years, the hobby converted into a deep passion for Sofia, and now it’s taking her to the most competitive level of college sport, Division I. Holovatska announced her commitment on October 22nd, where she will continue her athletic and academic journey as a Quinnipiac Bobcat.
“I would go on runs with my older sister, and that was when I realized running was something I enjoyed,” Holovatska told The Prowl. “I joined the team in sixth grade after deciding to try out since I had never been on a competitive sports team before. Cross country was the easiest entry point — I was also looking to make friends.”
Sofia’s relationship with running has increased exponentially since the early days. As a freshman, she says she ran mostly “for the community and friends,” but later on in high school, she knew she had potential to succeed at the next level.
Cross country is a very mental sport, so leadership is very evident, which Sofia strives for. “Sofia motivates the team basically every day — she always shows up ready to encourage the team.” Sofia’s teammate, Rachel Matyschyk, said.
Despite many athletes who think about college sports during their freshman year, Holovatska thought about it much later into her running career.
“I began thinking about running competitively in college the fall of my junior year,” she explained. “My sophomore year, I hit a plateau that weakened my relationship with the sport, but my junior year I had improved so much that the reality of running in college became within reach.”
That progress opened many doors and Sofia began looking for college options that she felt would challenge her in the athletic sector, but at the same time, providing her a strong education. During the search, Quinnipiac checked all the boxes.
“Quinnipiac gave me what I feel is the best balance between academics and athletics,” Holovatska said. “I feel confident that I will meaningfully contribute to the team, grow as a person, and compete at a high level while still prioritizing academics and not having sports consume my entire life.”
Looking into the future, Sofia is most excited about being surrounded by teammates who have similar goals and dedication that she does.
With her commitment to Quinnipiac University, Holovatska finalizes off these years of hard work, proving that confidence and love for something is all you need to be successful.
